Gum Disease Treatment
Understanding Gum Disease and Its Stages
Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is a chronic infection of the gums and the bone that supports your teeth. It begins as gingivitis, a mild stage where gums may become red, swollen, and bleed easily. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the gums pull away from the teeth and form deep pockets that trap bacteria. This can lead to bone loss, loose teeth, or even tooth loss.
The primary cause is poor oral hygiene, but other risk factors include smoking, dry mouth, diabetes, and genetic predisposition. Gum disease is one of the leading threats to oral health, affecting nearly half of adults aged 30 and older. It becomes more common with age, impacting over 70 percent of adults 65 and older, and is more prevalent in men than in women.
Treatments for Bleeding Gums and Early Periodontal Care
One of the earliest warning signs of gum disease is bleeding gums. This is often caused by plaque buildup at the gumline. While occasional bleeding might occur from brushing too hard, persistent bleeding usually indicates the onset of gum inflammation. Our bleeding gums treatment begins with a thorough professional cleaning, followed by evaluation of brushing habits and personalized oral hygiene coaching to help reverse the condition before it worsens.
We also offer Perio Protect periodontal gum disease treatment. This noninvasive system uses a custom-fitted tray that delivers medication deep below the gumline where bacteria thrive. Worn at home for just a few minutes a day, the tray helps reduce inflammation, bleeding, and harmful bacteria. Perio Protect supports gum healing and works hand in hand with professional cleanings to help preserve your oral health.
Managing Advanced Periodontitis and Gum Recession
When gum disease becomes periodontitis, the infection spreads deeper, damaging the bone and tissues that hold your teeth in place. This can lead to bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, and deep pockets between the teeth and gums. Treatment often includes deep cleanings (scaling and root planing), antibiotics, and sometimes surgery to restore gum health. Gum recession is also addressed during treatment—exposed roots can cause sensitivity and increase the risk of decay. Mild cases are managed with better oral care and by correcting habits like hard brushing or bite issues, while severe cases may need gum grafting. Keeping gum disease under control requires regular cleanings, antibacterial treatments, and ongoing checkups to track your progress and adjust care as needed.
